Presented by Mecum Auctions – While NASCAR required a minimum number of almost 2,000 Superbirds from Plymouth to legalize the special aero-design body pieces, most were powered by the 440 Super Commando engine. In fact, of three engines available in this model, the gorgeous car here features by far the rarest design: the 426 Hemi. Showing 16,485 miles on the odometer, this is one of a mere 58 Superbirds produced in that special run of Mopars with the Hemi/4-speed transmission combination.
Featuring its original sheet metal, this restored car was sold new at Capitol Motors in Trenton, New Jersey, and has as provenance the original window sticker, two broadcast sheets, its IBM punch card and a factory warranty card. Well-known in the Mopar hobby, its restoration was completed in 2002, and it was named Best American Muscle Car at 2003 Amelia Island Concours d’Elegance, plus it received OE Silver Certification at the 2002 Mopar Nationals; those judging documents state that the Silver Certification wasn’t for incorrect components, but for being “way better than factory” in its execution. It has a David Wise Vehicle Visual Evaluation Report and Certificate as well.
This amazing low-mileage car still has its original born-with drivetrain, including the 426/425 HP Hemi V-8 engine with dual 4-barrel carburetors, A833 Hemi 4-speed manual transmission and the Dana 60 3.54 Sure Grip differential associated with the A33 Track Pack. This car has both power steering, power brakes with front discs and heavy-duty cooling components. It is painted in Alpine White with a black vinyl top and interior, which was optioned with bucket seats, rare C16 center console, Hurst Pistol Grip shifter, N85 Tic-Toc-Tach and an AM radio. The exterior features dual outside mirrors, chrome exhaust tips, and the aero-package: a streamlined nose cone, hood pins, front fender air extractors, special rear window glass, tall rear wing and Plymouth graphics. Of course, the Road Runner icons and horn are here as well. This car rides on premium 15-inch Rallye wheels and F60-15 Goodyear Polyglas GT tires.
Truth be told, high-quality, restored Superbirds are generally available. However, Hemi/4-speed versions that retain original driveline pieces and premium interior options like the console, such as this example, are exceptionally rare. If you want a true muscle Mopar with provenance and genuine desirability, it would be difficult to surpass this outstanding vehicle.
This vehicle will be auctioned off at Mecum Auctions’ Kissimmee 2021 event (January 7-16, 2021).
